While keeping up with your dog's annual vaccinations and boosters may feel annoying, our vets in Brentwood share compelling reasons for doing so. We also share a handy dog vaccination schedule.
Why Get Your Dog Vaccinated?
Similar to how vaccines protect people against many serious illnesses, dog vaccines safeguard your dog's health against several serious diseases that could threaten their life.
Vaccinating your dog may initially appear unnecessary. However, it can actually save you a lot of money and fear for your pooch's health in the long term. By having your dog vaccinated, you'll significantly reduce the risk of having to pay for expensive treatments for preventable illnesses.
Which Vaccines Are Right For Your Dog
If you live in Brentwood, we recommend having your dog vaccinated against distemper, bordetella, hepatitis, rabies and parvovirus.
Our veterinarians at Brentwood Veterinary Clinic will suggest the most appropriate vaccines for your dog depending on its age and lifestyle. Your location is also a factor in this decision, as some parasites and diseases are more common in some areas than in others.
Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs
Puppy Shot Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- *DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) Shot 1
10 - 12 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 - 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule (12 - 16 Months)
Annually
- Final Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Every 3 Years
- DHPP Booster
- Rabies
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Speak to your vet to learn which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.
Potential Vaccine Side Effects
Dogs can sometimes experience allergies from their shots. This usually happens when they are sensitive to a specific ingredient in a particular vaccine. Certain breeds are more likely to react to certain ingredients.
For example, German shepherds, collies, and sheepdogs are known to be sensitive to some vaccines. Your veterinarian will avoid using vaccines that contain ingredients your dog may be sensitive to.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Vaccinations are crucial for your dog's preventive healthcare. By vaccinating your dog early on and keeping up with regular shots as they grow up, you greatly increase the chances of ensuring your beloved pet's long and healthy life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.